2 Module 1
The purpose of Module One is to get acquainted with the course, engage in an introductory discussion with classmates, and begin completing course assignments. This page outlines the objectives, provides an overview of the module, provides introductory information about the course, and outlines the assignments due for the module.
Objectives
The Module One assignments will guide you toward the following objectives:
- Understand the course objectives and outline
- Prepare for the work of Writing 101 online
- Identify experiences, strengths, and challenges as a writer
Overview
Module One assignments include the following:
- Read through the Syllabus module materials (Welcome message, Course Guidelines, Course Schedule, Discussion Grading, Peer-Review Notes)
- Participate in the introductory class discussion
- Compose and submit literary autobiography
Readings
Aside from introductory course content, no readings are assigned for this module, but it is highly recommended that you begin the Module Two readings and assignments.
A Few Notes about WRT 101
As you will see from reading through the course information located in the Course Guidelines, WRT 101 is geared toward allowing students to develop skills related to critical thinking, analysis, research, argument, and, of course, writing thus, this online WRT 101 course has been structured around three main units that directly reflect the stated objectives. These units include:
- Unit 1: Rhetorical Analysis
- Unit 2: Argument
- Unit 3: Research Argument
Each unit will end with the submission of a final project that reflects the main focus of the unit. Specifically, your project for Unit 1 is a rhetorical analysis essay, your project for Unit 2 is a brief argument essay, and your project for Unit 3 is an extended research argument, which will include an annotated bibliography component.
You will find, as we progress, that the units follow a logical flow: By learning rhetorical strategies in Unit 1, you will be equipped to apply rhetorical strategies to your own essay writing to create written arguments. By learning how to develop and support a written argument, you will be equipped to blend research into a written argument to create an extended, supported written argument. The annotated bibliography will be a step along the way to help you develop research skills and identify credible, persuasive support for your topic.
By the end of the course, you will be able to analyze texts, convey your beliefs through written arguments, and engage in sound, credible research. These skills will be useful as you continue on with your academic and career pursuits. Perhaps you will also find that they will prove useful in other ways. This is often the case, as students tend to find, months or years after completing WRT 101, that the skills they gained in the course helped them in areas like communicating better through email (even gaining jobs and promotions in doing so), knowing when not to trust information on websites, becoming more aware of manipulative strategies, etc. You may be surprised at how the strategies and concepts we cover relate to your other goals, interests, and projects. You instructor looks forward to seeing your growth in these areas throughout the next few months.
Assignments
Discussions
CD1: Introductions
Please introduce yourself to the class by providing any details you believe to be important about you and your life. You will find CD1, the forum for class introductions, in the Discussions area of this course.
For your introduction, provide a song (title and, if appropriate, artist) that represents how you feel at this moment – a song you would put into a time capsule representing this exact moment of your life. In addition, share whatever else you would like to share, be it a bit of background about your educational goals and your life, a summary of a dramatic event you recently experienced, or a note about something you value or have recently discovered.
As the list of introductions grows, feel free to respond to the posts of others by clicking on a post, hitting “Reply,” and then composing and submitting your message. Use this opening discussion as an opportunity to interact with others in the class and to gain familiarity with this D2L online discussion feature. Submit your introduction by the due date noted on the Course Schedule.
Dropbox
Unit 1: Literary Autobiography
Compose a reflection of about 350 – 500 words in which you write about your past experiences with reading and writing. Questions you might consider include the following:
- What are your career and educational goals?
- What are your experiences with reading and writing in general?
- Do you enjoy reading and writing? Explain.
- What have you struggled with as a reader and writer?
- What skills would you like to gain in this course?
The purpose of this assignment is to let your instructor know a bit about your background and your interest in the course. Submit an electronic copy through the Dropbox tool, which is located on the upper navigation menu.
Looking Ahead
Module Two will cover key concepts related to rhetorical analysis, the focus of this first unit.
